Second Treatise of Government

Exploring the foundations of political theory, this essay delves into the nature of civil government, its origins, and its legitimate purposes. It argues that governmental authority derives from the consent of the governed and emphasizes individual rights and the social contract. The work critiques absolute monarchy and advocates for a system that protects life, liberty, and property. Through a rational and philosophical lens, it lays the groundwork for modern democratic thought and remains a critical text in the study of political philosophy.